Garden Sheds and Storage: What to Know Before You Buy

Thinking about getting a garden shed, garden store, or summer house? These can really improve how you use your outdoor space. With so many options, it can get confusing, but I’m here to help you understand your options, and give you some things to consider.

What Do You Need From Your Garden Shed or Storage?

First things first—what do you actually need? A shed isn’t just a shed. It could be:

• Garden Shed: A place to store tools, bikes, or garden furniture. Maybe even a small workspace. It’s great if you need something that does a bit of everything.
• Garden Store: A smaller option if you just need a spot for your lawnmower and a few tools. It’s perfect if you don’t have much space and only need to keep the basics stored away.
• Summer House: More about relaxing and enjoying your garden than just storing stuff. It’s great if you want a cosy spot to chill out in.

Knowing what you need will help you decide what to buy and make the whole process much easier. For example, if you need to keep tools organized, a garden store might be perfect. If you want a relaxing space, a summer house could be just what you need.

Size Matters (More Than You Think)

It sounds obvious, but it’s really easy to get the size wrong. Measure your garden space before you do anything else. Think about:

• How much room do you have? Check for any trees or fences that might get in the way. Make sure there’s enough space for the shed and for you to move around it comfortably.
• What are you storing? Do you need space for a few tools or for bigger things like garden furniture too? Plan ahead—if the shed’s too small, you’ll end up with stuff everywhere again.
• Access: Make sure there’s enough room to open the doors easily and move things in and out. Trust me, trying to squeeze past a lawnmower is no fun. Also, think about how wide the door needs to be if you’re storing larger items.

Shed Material: Wood, Metal, or Plastic?

Not all garden sheds are made the same. The material you choose changes how the shed looks, how long it lasts, and how much work it takes to keep it nice. Here’s the scoop:

• Wooden Sheds: They look natural and really nice, but you’ll need to keep up with maintenance—like treating the wood regularly to stop it from rotting. Wooden sheds also have a lovely rustic feel and can fit in well with most gardens. You can add shelves, hooks, and paint them to suit your style.
• Metal Sheds: These are strong, secure, and great if you’re worried about pests. They don’t always have the same garden feel as wood, but they’re harder to break into. They’re also fire-resistant, which can be handy if you’re storing flammable things.
• Plastic Sheds: Easy to deal with and often cheaper. They’re great if you don’t want the hassle of maintenance, but they might not be as strong. Plastic sheds are lightweight and easy to move, and they won’t rust or rot, which makes them low-maintenance.

Security Considerations

If you’re keeping valuable tools or bikes in your shed, security is really important. Here are some things to think about:

• Lockable Doors: Look for doors that have a solid lock. Some sheds come with built-in locks, but you might want to add an extra padlock to be safe. It’s worth spending a bit more for a good lock.
• Windows: If you don’t want people peeking in, go for frosted windows or no windows at all. If you do want windows for natural light, make sure they’re secure and lockable. Curtains or blinds can give you privacy without losing the light.
• Anchor Points: Metal sheds can be harder to break into, but with any shed, it’s a good idea to secure it to the ground. This makes it harder for anyone to move or tamper with. Some sheds come with anchor kits, or you can buy one separately.

Location, Location, Location

• Flat Ground: Make sure the area is level before building. If the ground slopes, your shed might end up wobbly, which isn’t good for keeping things safe. You might need to level the ground or add a base. A good base also helps with drainage and keeps the shed dry.
• Sunlight and Weather: Putting it under a tree might sound good, but think about falling branches or extra dampness. Too much sun can fade the colour of the shed over time, and too much dampness can lead to rot or mould. Try to find a spot that gets a bit of both—sun and shade.
• Ease of Access: Don’t put your shed all the way at the back if it’s hard to get to—you’ll regret it when you need something quickly. Also, think about the path to the shed. Avoid putting it somewhere that gets muddy or overgrown. A clear, solid path makes it much easier to use, especially in bad weather.

Style and Looks

Functionality is the main thing, but your shed should still look good, right? There are lots of options that can blend in or even make your garden look better. Think about:

• Paint or Stain: Wooden sheds are really easy to customise. You can paint them any colour you like or add a wood stain to bring out the natural look. Bright colours make it a feature, while natural tones help it blend in. You can change it up every few years if you want a new look.
• Roof Type: Apex roofs (with a peak) look traditional and give good headroom. Flat roofs look more modern. Pent roofs (one slope) are great if you want to put the shed against a wall. The roof type also affects water drainage, so pick one that works best for your garden.
• Finishing Touches: Adding things like window boxes with flowers like geraniums, a trellis for climbing plants like clematis, or hanging baskets with petunias can make your shed feel like part of the garden instead of just a storage spot. Small touches like a doormat or outdoor lights can make a big difference too.

Budget Tips

Garden sheds and storage can cost a lot, so it’s important to know what you’re paying for.

Deals and Offers: Look out for sales and promotions. Websites like Buy Sheds Direct often have offers, so it’s worth checking. Don’t forget to budget for extras like a base or locks if they’re not included. A longer warranty can also mean better quality, so look at the warranty options too.

Wood vs Metal vs Plastic: Wooden sheds usually cost more than plastic but less than metal. Metal sheds cost more upfront but can save money on maintenance in the long run. Plastic sheds are often the cheapest, but think about if they’ll work for you long-term.

Assembly: Check if the price includes assembly or if you have to put it together yourself—some flatpacks can be a real pain. If you’re not into DIY, it might be worth paying extra for a pre-assembled option. Some retailers also offer an assembly service, which might include setting up the base.

Shed your worries – you’re building confidence!

Buying a garden shed or storage doesn’t have to be stressful. Know what you need, measure your space, pick the right material, and think about security. Each of these steps will help you create a garden space that is organized, functional, and enjoyable. It’s that simple. Don’t forget to think about style and placement to make the most of your garden. And if you need ideas, check out Buy Sheds Direct for a great range of garden sheds and storage options.

Whatever you decide, I hope you find the perfect shed for your garden—one that fits your needs and makes your outdoor space even better. With the right shed, your garden can be more organised, more useful, and more enjoyable. So take your time, choose wisely, and happy shed hunting!